R360 League Recruits Hit With 10-Year Exclusion from NRL

Rugby league's governing body has declared that participants who join the “counterfeit” R360 will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The new league, set to start in late 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Prominent NRL stars have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will feature multiple men's clubs and four women's sides located in key urban centers worldwide.

Samoa's the player, who plays for the Warriors in the NRL, has stated he has had discussions with R360.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also believed to be thinking about signing R360.

A group of rugby union teams, including Australia, earlier imposed a prohibition on players joining R360 playing global fixtures.

“We've listened to our clubs and we've responded strongly,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission head the official.

“Unfortunately, there will persistently exist organizations that seek to pirate our sport for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the advancement of athletes. They merely capitalize on the hard work of others, endangering athletes of monetary damage while gaining personally.

“They are, in reality, imitating the sport.”

The league is launched by ex-England star Mike Tindall and funded by private investors.

After the possible rugby union bans were revealed earlier, it commented: “We want to work in partnership as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The event is designed with customized calendars for male and female sides and R360 will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as written into their deals.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its proposals from the international authority, rugby union's administrative organization, at its board session next year.